Judi Love has lifted the lid on what body confidence means to her, and it’s all about appreciating yourself – even the bits you don’t like.
The 43 year old Loose Women panellist – who has partnered up with JD Williams for their new campaign with Gok Wan – has revealed she’s learned that, although it’s been a journey, she’s now grateful for what she’s got. And loves to shake it in front of the mirror!
Here, the mum of two chats about the new campaign, what she loves best about her work, and why it’s important to welcome new chapters in life…
Hi Judi! Let’s chat fashion. Do you show your personality through style?
Yes, fashion should be fun. Unfortunately though, we can be too busy worrying about things like “How does my bum look in this?” That can take the fun away from it.
Have you ever struggled with body confidence?
Of course. Especially when you have children and your body changes – mine has over the years – it’s natural to have a moment when you lack confidence. I’ve been trying to focus more on how grateful I am for my body. Yes, I’ve got a belly and cellulite. Yes, I’ve got stretch marks… but these are all part of me. My body carried two beautiful children and it gets me up every morning. It allows me to do the work that I love. I wish I had that much confidence when I was younger though.
We can be so negative at times about our bodies…
You’d never speak to your friend like that but we do to ourselves. My new outlook is to stand in front of the mirror naked, turn to the left then right, and just appreciate what I’ve got. If everyone did that every day, or put moisturiser on like you’re the sexiest being you’ve ever seen in your life, at some stage you’re going to see something you like.
We all need to take a leaf out of your book!
Just shake what you’ve got! Nowadays we don’t tend to see “real” bodies. We live in a world where we just don’t see people naked – unless you go swimming for example. But it’s empowering to see other women who look like you. We’re all different shapes, sizes – it’s time to stop worrying as much.
Does your daughter come to you for fashion advice?
She will say, “Mum, what do you think about this,” but she’s so great with fashion on her own. It’s been lovely watching her grow into a young lady and see what her sense of style is. She puts outfits together so well. My son is into fashion too. He’ll ask “How’s my fit” – fit is the new word for outfit, by the way.
How are those teenage years going?
I’m blessed, they have bags of personality. Parenting is always hard but it’s also so rewarding. We love to do things together, like go see a show, rap or even bake. Plus, there’s my baby Bella [Judi’s cat].
Why do you choose to keep your kids out of the spotlight?
When they’re older, if they decide they want to be in the public eye, then they can be. But for now, I’m the one who’s made that choice.
And as far as dating goes – are you out on the scene?
I’m always dating. There’s always someone trying to get my attention. Let’s see if one of those suitors will qualify for my love though [laughs]. Honestly, I like to date myself – whether it be a trip to a spa, go for a nice meal, whatever. It’s important to love yourself. Self-love is so underrated, it allows you to learn what your standards and boundaries are.
What’s been your proudest career achievement?
Selling out the London Palladium. I’ve been told I’m the first Black British female comedian to do so with a solo show. I’m also proud of my documentary [Black, Female And Invisible] winning an award. Then I love that I get to work on Loose Women.
(Image: ITV/Ray Burmiston/REX/Shutterstock)
Speaking of Loose Women, is it exciting to be on the panel?
It’s a great show to be a part of – and we’ve just been nominated for our first ever BAFTA Television Award. I’m so excited. You laugh, get your make-up done, talk with your girls, connect with the audience –it’s just so fulfilling. Plus, I get on with everyone. I’m close with Nadia [Sawalha], Brenda [Edwards], Kéllé [Bryan] and, of course, Janet [Street-Porter].
You’ve also stepped in for Rob Beckett on Radio Two – would you like a permanent gig?
Definitely, I’m putting that out to the universe. It’s been fantastic and I appreciate that Rob has trusted me to take it on.
Tell us more about what the campaign with JD Williams – which takes a stand against the “invisibility” of midlife women, celebrating their relevance, roles and individuality – means to you…
I love the brand and when they told me about the campaign, I thought it was fantastic. I’m always in that mode of rediscovering yourself. No matter what point you are at in life, you can still feel fabulous. No matter what age, size or shape – JD Williams represents that. Plus, it was amazing to work alongside Gok [Wan] – he’s so knowledgeable.
What are your favourite pieces in the collection?
I love the black skinny jeans and trench coat. I can wear them on the school run, to a comedy show or dress it up with heels if I’m going out. I’m also a big fan of bright colours, so anything bold is a win for me.
JD Williams has partnered with Judi Love, Gok Wan and Helen Skelton for a new campaign that takes a stand against the ‘invisibility’ of midlife women, celebrating their relevance, roles and individuality.
View news Source: https://www.ok.co.uk/celebrity-news/loose-womens-judi-loves-body-32625162
